This volume is a comprehensive reference manual establishing standardized analytical procedures for testing water and wastewater quality. Widely used by laboratories, engineers, and public health officials, it provides authoritative methods to ensure consistency and reliability in water analysis.

The book covers a broad range of physical, chemical, and microbiological tests, including:

Physical characteristics: temperature, turbidity, color, and solids content
Chemical analysis: pH, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), hardness, alkalinity, and concentrations of various ions and pollutants
Microbiological testing: detection and enumeration of bacteria, particularly indicators of fecal contamination (e.g., coliform organisms)

Each method is presented with detailed procedures, required equipment, reagents, calculation steps, and guidance on accuracy and limitations. Emphasis is placed on standardization, allowing results from different laboratories to be compared reliably.

The volume also addresses:

Sampling techniques: proper collection and preservation of water samples
Quality control: minimizing errors and ensuring reproducibility
Interpretation of results: relating analytical findings to water quality standards and public health concerns